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Although Mademoiselle Reisz seems to be relatively insignificant in The Awakening she has a profound influence on Edna Mademoiselle Reisz is one of the only characters in the novel who can understand Ednas true character Reisz inspires Edna to have a courageous soul that dares and defies 63 Mademoiselle Reisz influences Edna by acting like a sanctuary for her When Edna feels bored it would be in such a mood that she would hunt up Mademoiselle Reisz 58 When Edna returns to the city she is compelled to visit Mademoiselle Reisz When she visits Mademoiselle Reisz her boredom is lifted away by Reiszs music and Roberts letters to Reisz Edna loses herself when Mademoiselle Reisz plays music 64 Mademoiselle Reisz makes Edna feel happy by allowing her to read letters from Robert Ednas eyes fill with delight when Mademoiselle Reisz shows Edna the letters 80 Seeing how happy Mademoiselle Reisz is as a non-married artist inspires Edna to be more independent and to pursue her desire to paint This relates back to the meaning of the novel -- a womans struggle for individuality while still being married By spending time with Mademoiselle Reisz Edna realizes that in order to be a separate self she cannot have the burdens of marriage and children 18 Mademoiselle Reisz also motivates Ednas endeavors Mademoiselle Reisz encourages Edna to be her own individual One way in which she does this is by defining the requirements for a genuine artist to be an artist includes much one must possess the courageous soul she says 63 Since Edna wishes to become a genuine artist these words melt into her soul 63 When Reisz says this to Edna she is not just informing her that an artist is one who paints but she is also implying that an artist is one who is willing to surpass the borders of society Although Edna tries to surpass the borders of society in the

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